It’s been a good year for New Zealand motorsport, highlighted by our two rival V8 series coming together, and some big results on the international stage. Full credit and congratulations to the likes of Scott Dixon, Brendon Hartley, Earl Bamber, Mitch Evans and Hayden Paddon.

While those names grab more headlines, there is plenty to celebrate at the grassroots level of our sport across the country.

I am particularly encouraged by the success of events such as those put on by the Eastern Southland Car Club – in conjunction with MSNZ – aimed at welcoming more women and young people into motorsport. It would be great to see more of these types of events at other clubs – a must, if we want to grow as a sport and ensure our strength for the future.

On the subject of women in motorsport, Emma Gilmour has been flying the flag on an FIA joint-initiative women’s training camp in Qatar, where she was named top driver. You can read about her experiences in this issue of MotorSport News.

Even further away from the headlines and limelight are the many hardworking volunteers, who give their time to ensure the races we all love can actually take place in all corners of the country. That being the case, I’d like to congratulate The Motorsport Club on being awarded the V8 Supercars’ Volunteer Group of the Year. Hear from founder Debbie Day and volunteer Clarke Hotton here.

Looking ahead, I plan on getting out to some events this summer and I particularly have an eye on next year’s Endurance Championship, which should be a cracker!

On a final note, thank you all for your support this year. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – stay safe and have fun!